For other people with the same name, see William Gilbert (disambiguation). For the silent film actor (1891-1961), see Billy Gilbert (silent film actor).

William Gilbert Barron (September 12, 1894 – September 23, 1971), known as Billy Gilbert, was an American comedian and actor known for his comic sneeze routines. He appeared in over 200 feature films, short subjects and television shows starting in 1929. He is not to be confused with silent film actor Billy Gilbert (1891-1961), a.k.a. "Little Billy Gilbert", born William V. Campbell.

Biography

After an unhappy first marriage, Gilbert married Ella McKenzie in 1938. She had appeared as an ingenue in short-subject comedies. Fellow film comedian Charley Chase was the best man.


Death
Billy Gilbert died in hospital after suffering a stroke at the age of 77. He was cremated and his ashes scattered within the rose gardens of the Odd Fellows Cemetery, in Los Angeles. A plaque of remembrance was erected in his name nearby.

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